Part of the Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series. It is design to provide practical guidance on charitable solicitation registration and multi-state fundraising compliance.
Video Overview:
Many nonprofits assume that once they receive federal tax-exempt status, they can begin fundraising anywhere without additional requirements. However, Pennsylvania, like most states, requires nonprofits to register before soliciting donations from its residents, even if the organization is based elsewhere.
In this video, we explain how charitable solicitation registration works in Pennsylvania, including who must register, what types of fundraising activities trigger requirements, and how the initial filing process is completed. We also cover the role of the Pennsylvania Department of State’s Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations and the state’s annual renewal and financial reporting requirements.
Because Pennsylvania includes tiered financial reporting requirements, such as reviewed or audited financial statements based on contribution levels, understanding these rules is especially important for growing nonprofits. This overview provides practical guidance to help organizations evaluate their obligations and maintain compliance.
This video explains Pennsylvania charitable solicitation registration requirements, including who must register, how to file, and how financial reporting thresholds impact compliance.
This video is part of the Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series, which explains charitable solicitation registration and nonprofit fundraising compliance requirements across the United States.
What This Video Covers
- Overview of Pennsylvania charitable solicitation laws
- Role of the Pennsylvania Department of State (Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations)
- Who must register, including out-of-state nonprofits
- Fundraising activities that trigger registration requirements
- Initial registration process and required documentation
- Annual renewal and reporting requirements
Who This Video Is For
- Executive directors launching fundraising expansion
- Development teams building online campaigns
- Finance and compliance staff overseeing registrations
- Boards evaluating regulatory risk
- Organizations expanding fundraising beyond their home state
Video Summary
Pennsylvania regulates charitable solicitation through the Department of State, specifically within the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations. This office oversees nonprofit organizations that solicit donations from Pennsylvania residents and maintains a public registry of charitable organizations operating within the state. These regulations are designed to promote transparency and provide donors with access to information about charities raising funds.
Most nonprofits must register in Pennsylvania before soliciting charitable contributions from residents of the state. This requirement applies to organizations located within Pennsylvania as well as those based in other states. If a nonprofit requests donations from Pennsylvania residents—whether through online, digital, or traditional fundraising methods—registration is generally required before those activities begin.
A wide range of fundraising activities can trigger registration requirements. These include donation requests through a nonprofit’s website, email campaigns, social media appeals, direct mail solicitations, telephone fundraising, and events promoted to Pennsylvania donors. Even organizations without a physical presence in the state may still need to register if their fundraising efforts reach Pennsylvania residents.
To complete the initial registration, nonprofits must file a charitable organization registration statement with the Pennsylvania Department of State. This filing typically includes formation documents, an IRS determination letter, a list of officers and directors, and financial information about the organization. Most nonprofits must also submit their most recent IRS Form 990 as part of the registration.
Once registered, nonprofits must maintain compliance through annual renewal filings. These filings typically include updated financial information, IRS Form 990 documentation, and organizational updates. Submitting renewals on time is essential to maintaining good standing with the state.
Pennsylvania also requires additional financial reporting depending on the amount of charitable contributions raised. Organizations that exceed certain thresholds may be required to submit reviewed or audited financial statements prepared by an independent CPA. These requirements provide additional transparency for organizations raising significant funds from the public.
Out-of-state nonprofits are not exempt from Pennsylvania’s requirements. Organizations that solicit donations from Pennsylvania residents—even without a physical presence in the state—may still be required to register. However, charitable solicitation registration is separate from corporate registration requirements, which depend on whether the nonprofit has a physical presence or conducts operations within the state.
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About the Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series
The Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series is an educational video series explaining charitable solicitation registration, multi-state fundraising compliance, and related nonprofit regulatory requirements. Each video addresses a specific compliance question commonly faced by nonprofit executives, development teams, and finance leaders.
Full Video Transcript
FAQs
Do nonprofits need to register in Pennsylvania before fundraising?
Yes. Most nonprofits must register with the Pennsylvania Department of State before soliciting donations from residents.
Does online fundraising trigger Pennsylvania registration requirements?
Yes. Online fundraising—including websites, email campaigns, and social media—can trigger registration if Pennsylvania residents are being solicited.
Do out-of-state nonprofits need to register in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Nonprofits located outside Pennsylvania must register if they solicit donations from Pennsylvania residents.
Who regulates charitable solicitation in Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania Department of State, through the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations, oversees charitable registration.
What financial reporting requirements apply in Pennsylvania?
Depending on fundraising levels, nonprofits may need to submit reviewed or audited financial statements.
Is Pennsylvania’s charity registry public?
Yes. Pennsylvania maintains a public registry of charitable organizations available to donors.
Are there exemptions from Pennsylvania registration requirements?
Yes. Certain religious organizations, educational institutions, and small charities may qualify, though documentation may still be required.
What ongoing filings are required after registration?
Nonprofits must submit annual renewal filings with updated financial and organizational information.
Related Compliance Videos
- What Is Charitable Solicitation Registration?
- Which States Require Charitable Solicitation Registration?
- Charitable Solicitation Registration Explained for Nonprofits
- Do Small Nonprofits Need to Register in Every State?
Related Compliance Resources
- Pennsylvania Charitable Solicitation Registration Requirements
- Pennsylvania Fundraising Compliance Guide
- Pennsylvania Charitable Solicitation Registration Exemptions
Need Help Evaluating Your Registration Requirements?
If your organization is evaluating fundraising expansion or navigating multi-state registration requirements, you may schedule a consultation to discuss your situation.